physical science

American  

noun

1. any of the natural sciences dealing with inanimate matter or with energy, as physics, chemistry, and astronomy.

2. these sciences collectively.

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physical science British  

noun

1. any of the sciences concerned with nonliving matter, energy, and the physical properties of the universe, such as physics, chemistry, astronomy, and geology Compare life science

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physical science Scientific  

1. Any of several branches of science, such as physics, chemistry, and astronomy, that study the nature and properties of energy and nonliving matter.

2. Compare life science

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Other Word Forms

• physical scientist noun

Etymology

Origin of physical science

First recorded in 1835–45

Compare meaning

How does physical-science compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• physical science vs. physics
• life science vs. physical science

Example Sentences

The synthesis report summarised findings from three expert assessments published between 2021 and 2022 that looked at the physical science, impacts, and mitigation of climate change.

From Reuters

Dr. Rycroft often works at the crossroads of the life and physical sciences.

From New York Times

I vividly remember exploring the wastewater-treatment process in my seventh grade physical science class.

From Seattle Times

Her portfolio will include issues ranging from climate change to the physical sciences.

From Reuters

I don't really believe in an objective truth about almost anything, except maybe some rare instances in the physical sciences.

From Salon